90% of Israeli Jews Intend to Observe Traditional Shiva Mourning, Survey Shows
A new survey reveals that 90% of Israeli Jews intend to observe traditional shiva mourning rites, showing high adherence across secular and religious communities alike.
A comprehensive new survey reveals that approximately 90% of Israeli Jews intend to observe the traditional seven-day mourning period, known as shiva, in the event of losing a close family member. The findings highlight shiva as one of the most widely practiced Jewish traditions in the country, with adherence rates closely mirroring major holidays like Passover and Hanukkah.
High Adherence Across All Sectors
Conducted at the end of August 2026 by the Tzohar Zohar Index for Jewishness and Tradition alongside ynet, the survey sampled 1,330 adult Israeli Jews with a margin of error of ±2.7%. Among respondents who have already experienced the loss of a first-degree relative, 82% reported completing the full shiva, while 9% observed it partially, and only 9% skipped it entirely. Surprisingly, nearly three out of four secular respondents (74%) stated they would sit a full shiva for an immediate family member.
"The practice of shiva bridges deep communal and familial bonds, demonstrating that traditional mourning rituals remain profoundly relevant across the entire Israeli societal spectrum." — Tzohar Institute
Funeral Traditions and Burial Preferences
The survey also examined broader mourning and funeral customs. While 71% of the Jewish public values traditional Jewish burial rites, secular opinions are more divided, with 31% stating traditional burial is entirely unimportant to them. Furthermore, preferences regarding personal burial differ significantly from those for relatives: 46% insist on traditional ground burial for family members, while only 38% demand it for themselves, and 13% express a preference against traditional burial altogether.
